Surrey Schools hosts 5th-annual Cross-Cultural Symposium on Anti-Racism and Intersectionality
Secondary students from across the district are invited to attend this year's Cross-Cultural Symposium on Anti-Racism and Intersectionality, taking place virtually on Wednesday, May 12 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.
The 5th-annual event is an opportunity for Grade 8 to 12 students to gain a better understanding of the challenges that Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) individuals face.
"We want to encourage our students to attend the symposium so they can learn about the experiences of BIPOC individuals who have faced adversity and overcome it," said Lyn Daniels, Director of Instruction for Aboriginal Learning. "It's an important message for all youth and we hope these stories stimulate learning and discussion amongst all attendees."
The symposium features a lineup of guest speakers, including Alysha Collie of 3Crows Productions, Syrian writer Danny Ramadan, Indigenous social innovator Jeska Slater and storyteller Ivan Coyote. The district will also play a compilation of videos between speakers, where students share their experiences with discrimination and racism.
"We've asked students to respond to questions including 'what does it feel like to belong,' 'what do you wish people understood about who you are,'" said Daniels. "We want to share these lived experiences of our students and have thoughtful discussions about the racism and discrimination many of us have faced in our communities."
This year marks the first time the symposium will be held virtually. Previously, about 275 students would gather in-person for the event. But because this year's event is being held virtually, the district is able to accommodate up to 500 students. The first 200 student registrants will receive a complimentary mask, if desired.
"In the past, we were limited by the size of the room, and this time, we're only limited by the capacity of the platform we are using," said Daniels, noting a survey will also be circulated to students asking about their experiences with discrimination. "It's important to understand what our students are experiencing. These stories help inform our practice."
Teachers are invited to register their class or group of students and will receive the Zoom link on or before Monday, May 10. To register, click here.
